Mr. Speaker, Bob White, the most powerful union leader in Canada, warned Canadian political leaders against being vengeful following a victorious yes vote in the referendum on Monday. He called on them to act responsibly and to negotiate with Quebecers, saying that millions of Quebecers want a different relationship and different recognition by Canada, and so serious discussions will have to be undertaken.
Mr. White acknowledged that it was in Canadians' and Quebecers' interest to establish an economic and political partnership. Given the size of the stakes involved, it would probably not be hard to find support among business people to defend and promote a partnership with Quebec.
Quebecers will vote yes on Monday, confident in their ability to finally negotiate with their Canadian partners as one people with another.